Hyundai Motor Rises to No. 29 in Interbrand’s Best Global Brands 2026 Report

According to a recent company press release, Hyundai Motor Company has been ranked No. 29 in Interbrand's "Best Global Brands 2026" report, with its brand value reaching USD 25 billion. This marks a 2 percent increase and extends the company's continuous brand value growth streak to 17 years. Furthermore, Hyundai climbed two spots to fourth place among automotive brands in the ranking, up from sixth position in 2025.

José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, stated that the 17 consecutive years of growth reflect customer trust, dealer partnerships, and advancements in software-defined vehicles and physical AI.

Recognition for Product Lineup and Safety

Hyundai's product portfolio received several industry accolades, contributing to its ongoing market presence:

• The all-new Palisade was named the 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™.
• The IONIQ 9 electric flagship SUV was recognized as the World’s Best Large SUV at the 2026 Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) Awards.
• The 2026 IONIQ 9 earned the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award for U.S. models and received Euro NCAP's highest safety rating.
• The TUCSON Hybrid supported growth in global electrified sales, with the company reporting that electrified vehicle sales reached 961,812 units globally in full-year 2025 and 242,612 units in the first quarter of 2026.

Advancements in Physical AI and Robotics

Hyundai Motor Group progressed in its robotics and artificial intelligence initiatives:

• Group affiliate Boston Dynamics' Atlas robot received the Best Robot award in CNET Group’s Best of CES 2026.
• The Robotics LAB’s MobED won the CES 2026 Best of Innovation Award and a Red Dot Award in May 2026.
• Motional initiated an IONIQ 5 robotaxi pilot service in Las Vegas in March 2026.
• The group introduced the Pleos software brand and the Pleos Connect system, aiming to equip approximately 20 million vehicles with the technology by 2030.

Global Marketing and Brand Valuation

Hyundai engaged in sports and cultural marketing efforts, including serving as an official partner for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and supplying tournament vehicles with the "Next Starts Now" campaign. The company also renewed sports partnerships such as the ICC Premier Partner role and sponsorship of the CONMEBOL Libertadores. In cultural marketing, Hyundai won a Grand Prix at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in June 2026 for its "Coquí Alarmed" campaign.

Interbrand evaluates global brands using three criteria: financial analysis, the role of the brand in purchase decisions, and brand strength. Jihun Moon, Global Managing Partner of Interbrand Group, noted that Hyundai's expansion into physical AI and proven competitiveness in robotics and electrification contributed to its brand distinctiveness and trust.

Readers can verify these details and review the original announcement by visiting the Hyundai Media Hub via hyundai.com.